Senate Votes 50-48 to Stop Trump's Iran War, Defying Veto Threat
The U.S. Senate voted 50-48 Tuesday to force President Donald Trump to withdraw American forces from hostilities with Iran, delivering a major bipartisan rebuke that orders an end to military action unless Congress explicitly approves further engagement.
The resolution, which passed with four Republicans joining most Democrats, requires the president to either end hostilities or get congressional approval to continue [181429][180246]. The House of Representatives passed a similar version earlier this month, but the measure now heads to Trump, who is expected to veto it [181429][180209]. Lawmakers from both parties expressed frustration over the lack of a clear strategy and endgame in the conflict, with many questioning the president's authority to launch military strikes without legislative consent [180246][180209].
The vote comes as diplomatic peace talks between the U.S. and Iran continue. The United States has temporarily lifted oil sanctions on Iran to create space for negotiations [180215], and an initial diplomatic agreement has been signed, with intensive talks underway to end the war completely [181425]. Oil prices dropped below $70 a barrel as more tankers crossed the Strait of Hormuz following signs of progress in peace talks [180703].
The White House has meanwhile requested $87 billion in emergency funding, with the bulk designated for "urgent" costs related to potential military action against Iran [181262]. The request faces significant opposition from both parties, as many legislators question the timing and justification for the massive allocation [181262].
U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded Iran is not building nuclear weapons and has not resumed its nuclear weapons program, which was suspended in 2003, according to testimony from the recently departed U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard [181123].